THE strain of the recession on businesses has led to an increase in workplace violence.

That’s according to law firm Dolmans, who recorded a spike in the number of threats and assault cases in Wales.

Clare Hoskins, a partner at Cardiff-based Dolmans, who specialises in public and employers' liability claims, said: “We’ve seen a sharp rise in the number of cases where there’s been violence, or the threat of violence, in the workplace, which we believe is being contributed to by the added strain of the recession on Welsh businesses.

“During times of recession, employers struggle with restricted incomes and depleted workforces, which means that employees can be asked to take on greater responsibility.

“This increased pressure that employees find themselves under is compounded when budgets for benefits such as training and team-building initiatives are re-assessed in times of financial crisis, which can take away essential morale-boosting mechanisms for staff during stressful times.

“In addition, there can be a threat of redundancies, which further reduces morale and puts staff on edge.”

Clare believes increased pressure and stress at work combined with low morale means employees can clash far more easily than in a less pressurised and more relaxed working environment.

“Even if it starts as a small disagreement, with tensions running high and the threat of job losses overhead, problems can quickly be blown out of proportion, causing potential litigation issues for employers,” she said.

“Personally, I’ve seen an increase in such claims over the first quarter of this year and it’s concerning some employers seem unaware of their own liability when there is violence, or even the threat of violence, in the workplace.”

Claire Brook, an employment law partner at Chester-based Aaron and Partners solicitors, added: “Violence in the workplace may, in serious cases, amount to gross misconduct and justify summary dismissal without notice or pay in lieu of notice.

“To avoid liability for employment tribunal claims, it is important to investigate the circumstances in full and follow a fair procedure prior to reaching any decision as to who is to blame and what sanctions should be applied to those involved.”